In the Bahamas, vacationers find a wide choice of activities and accommodations. Plan a secluded beach getaway that caters to couples or stay at a full service Caribbean resort in Nassau which offers family-friendly accommodations and restaurants. The 700 islands of the Bahamas extend over 500 miles of clear water with miles of pink and white shoreline. The coral reefs, blue holes, walls, and caves are great diving locations. Before booking your trip, check for packages that let you save on spa treatments, golf, water sports and dining. Here are some of the best Bahamas vacations. Scroll to see the full list with photos or jump to the table of contents.


Pink Sands Resort

Pink Sands Resort

© Pink Sands Resort

Pink Sands Resort on Harbour Island is located 50 miles east of Nassau. This 18-acre celebrity hideaway offers a combination of luxury, privacy and natural beauty. The sandy beach here is quite unique since red coral accents in the sand give it a pinkish color. Explore the island by bike or in a golf cart since it is only a few miles long. Guest cottages offer plenty of privacy and stunning views of the Atlantic. You will have a private path to the beach which makes it easy to jump in for a quick swim. There are 25 different layouts to choose from. Ask for Bimini cottage if you are planning a honeymoon because it has a whirlpool on the outdoor deck. The gardens that surround the buildings are a bird sanctuary where you can observe many different types of birds while you have breakfast on your terrace in the morning.

If you prefer to relax next to the pool, the resort has a freshwater swimming pool. The exercise studio lets you stay in shape while on vacation. Grab one of the kayaks and explore the bay that fronts your cottage or request a massage. Play a game of tennis, borrow a paddle boat or find a quiet spot at the library to read a great book. Blue Bar right next to the water serves breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring Caribbean cuisine of the freshest island fish. Garden Terrace is open for dinner and offers couples a romantic setting for a special celebration. If you want to learn how to prepare some of the dishes served at the restaurant, ask about the cooking classes offered at the resort.

If you are looking for a dream wedding destination, ask about the wedding package which includes all the essentials, from a wedding cake to a wedding on the beach. The Blue Bar can host a wedding reception for up to 80 people. Fly to North Eleuthera International Airport on Harbour Island. The drive to the resort takes about 20 minutes. (242-333-2030).


Kamalame Cay

Kamalame Cay

© Kamalame Cay

This beautiful private island resort in the Bahamas is a perfect romantic spot for couples and honeymooners. A 96-acre Caribbean island with three miles of white-sand beach sheltered by a barrier reef, the hotel is only accessible by the resort's ferry. The resort is adjacent to Andros Island, located 20 miles west of Nassau and 150 miles southeast of Florida. Andros is a 2,300-square-mile island with the second largest reef in the Northern Hemisphere. The island is also home to rare birds, 40 kinds of wild orchids, pine forests and miles of deserted beaches you can explore on your trip.

Guest accommodations include rooms, cottage and villa suites, surrounded by tropical vegetation. The luxury villas feature high ceilings, ocean views and covered verandahs. Guest rooms are furnished with Indonesian furniture, platform tubs and French doors. The resort has a freshwater swimming pool with a gazebo and a tennis court. The hotel offers golf carts, snorkeling and windsurfing equipment, sea kayaks and fishing excursions. A resident dive master is available to guests. The dining room serves gourmet Caribbean cuisine incorporating local produce. Couples can also enjoy picnic lunches and room service. Andros Island is approximately one hour by plane from Miami and Fort Lauderdale (800-790-7971, 242-368-6281).

Good to know: Best Time to Visit the Bahamas


Coral Sands

Coral Sands

© Coral Sands

A charming mix of exotic Caribbean beach chic and traditional Harbour Island elegance, Coral Sands is a 38-room boutique resort on Harbour Island in the Bahamas. On the edge of the famous pink sand Dunmore Beach and overlooking the Caribbean’s clear emerald waters, Coral Sands is surrounded by tropical jungle and tall stately palm trees, cooled by breezes, comfortable and luxurious. The rooms are beautifully furnished with locally made dark wood furniture and feature bright colors and all modern amenities. All rooms have free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, some rooms have balconies with views of the ocean, and suites have seating areas. There are private cottages on the edge of the beach and a three-bedroom villa has its own pool. The hotel’s oceanfront restaurant offers a complimentary breakfast. There is also a library, a bar, and a games room. The guests enjoy the use of the outdoor pool and a tennis court.

Chapel Street, Harbour Island, Bahamas, Phone: 242-333-2350


Atlantis Paradise Island Resort

Atlantis Paradise Island Resort

© Atlantis

Atlantis is one of the most famous resorts in the world, attracting visitors of all ages with its activities, pools and a diverse choice of accommodations. You will often find seasonal specials that include airfare from major cities, meals and activities. Look for romantic packages and family deals. Couples can book a room at the Cove which has a private pool and elegant guest rooms.


Tiamo Resort

Tiamo Resort

© Tiamo

Tiamo gives guests access to an exclusive piece of paradise in the Caribbean. The Sun Set rooms have queen beds, simple private baths, showers, air conditioning, coffee and tea facilities, bathrobes, and hair dryers. The villas are more spacious, with features like direct beach access, king beds, mini bars, private balconies, huge private decks with private pools, walk-in closets, living rooms, and/or safes. The Bird’s Nest is unique, a three-bedroom luxury villa with en suite stone bathrooms, glass windows for a 360-degree view, and a drawing room. While at the resort, guests can scuba dive, snorkel, fish, sail, or just relax. This is also an eco-resort, so staying here is a choice to minimize the impact on the planet. The resort’s private beach is ready for seclusion due to the limited number of guests, and it is filled with hammocks, loungers, and a butler. Guests also have access to the library with books, digital and satellite TVs, and wireless internet, along with the Great Room for amazing views. Go outside to the pool with its loungers or take a nature tour, dive, boat, fish, sail, or snorkel. The food is created by a Michelin-trained chef and served in the Great Room.

South Andros Island, Out Islands, The Bahamas, Phone: 786-374-2442


Compass Point

Compass Point

© Compass Point

Compass Point is a colorfully decorated beach resort in the Bahamas. This Caribbean resort offers a truly unique setting with octagonal huts and cottages painted in bright colors. The resort features a freshwater pool, a private white sandy beach, a dive shop and is centrally located near many attractions on Nassau Paradise Island. The resort is an affordable affordable Caribbean island honeymoon vacation. The resort features 19 unique rooms located in brightly painted cottages, on 1.5 oceanfront acres. The room interiors are decorated with batik fabrics from West Africa, beaded Zulu bottles and hand-painted ceramic vases from Morocco. All huts and cottages have a private deck facing the ocean and some are on stilts. The oceanfront restaurant is a hot spot for hotel guests, island visitors and local residents. The innovative cuisine combines European, American and Caribbean cooking.

The hotel is located near Lyford Cay in a residential neighborhood four miles west of Cable Beach. Nassau and Paradise Island provide honeymooners with a number of things to do during the day and at night. Opposite the hotel is the Compass Point Recording Studio, which has hosted the likes of the Rolling Stones, Robert Palmer, Bob Marley and Lenny Kravitz. Guests can choose from a variety of activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, golf and excursions. The famous Cable Beach provides a number of watersports while Nassau and Paradise Island feature duty-free shopping, casinos and nightclubs. Book between late October and May to avoid the hurricane season. Nassau International Airport is served by most major airlines and has direct flights from major North American cities. Approximate flight time from New York is 2.5 hours, from Miami 50 minutes. The hotel is eight minutes from the Nassau International Airport. (866-431-2874).


Old Bahama Bay

Old Bahama Bay

© Old Bahama Bay

Bahamas is well known for its sunny days and sandy beaches. Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour is a luxury beachfront resort located on Grand Bahama Island just 64 miles from Florida, and a great honeymoon idea. Perfect for scuba divers, the resort offers many different types of scuba tours, including shark dives, wreck and reef dives. If you are bringing your own boat, you can dock at the 72 slip marina. Activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, and deep sea fishing and the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. Book an oceanfront suite so that you can look out over the water. There are 67 junior suites and 6 spacious two bedroom suites.

Many couples dream of a wedding on the water and often don't realize how easy it can be to make that dream come true. Get married on Old Bahama Bay's beautiful sandy shore overlooking tranquil Atlantic Ocean. The hotel can arrange a sunset wedding, combined with a stay in a luxury suite and romantic dining. Restaurants and bars include Dockside Bar & Grille and Teasers Tiki Bar. The oceanview suites come with whirlpool tubs, marble bathrooms, fine linens, towels and robes, CD and DVD players. Travelers can book massages on the beach, sunbathe, go snorkeling, kayaking, rent paddleboards, play tennis, use the fitness center or explore the island by bike. (888-983-6188).


The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas

The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas

© The Ocean Club

Located on the eastern end of Paradise Island, The Ocean Club is a romantic honeymoon getaway offering luxury accommodations, a great beach, golf and a relaxing spa. Honeymooners can choose from romantic cottages and spacious villas. Garden Cottages have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, parlor, dining area and a large enclosed courtyard. Three and four-bedroom villas measure over 4,400 square feet in size, featuring a garden courtyard, a shaded dining patio, and an infinity-edge pool for the best in indoor/outdoor living. The spa has eight private treatment villas with an air-conditioned massage pavilion, luxurious garden with daybed and a jetted bath.

Play spectacular oceanview golf in the Bahamas on the Tom Weiskopf-designed course on Paradise Island's peninsula. The Ocean Club Golf Course consistently wins the highest ratings and has hosted several nationally-televised events, including the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational. The course layout gives players spectacular views of Bahamas beaches and ocean. Tom Weiskopf is a renowned golf course designer who has created more than 30 golf courses throughout the world. He has 19 career wins and five foreign championships. The club offers an on-site Pro Shop and Clubhouse with a scenic restaurant. The Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar serves a variety of dishes on a terrace overlooking the golf course and the ocean. Take private lessons, group clinics and on course playing lessons at the Ocean Club Golf Academy. Improve your golf game while on your getaway.

Whether you want to get married on the beach or in a romantic garden, Bahamas is a beautiful destination with sunny weather and great sandy bays. Event coordinators at the resort take care of every detail on your special day. Get married on the terraced steps of the Versailles-inspired gardens with a 12th-century Augustinian cloister in the background. Or say "I do" on the deck of the pool terrace with spectacular ocean views. The property can accommodate weddings from 20 to 120 guests. You will be assigned a dedicated Celebration Consultant who will help you decide and plan all the details such as transfers, photographer, flowers, cake, music, fireworks and menus. Use the One& Only Honeymoon and Registry to receive gifts, including nights in a honeymoon villa and other great gifts.


Breezes Resort & Spa Bahamas

Breezes Resort & Spa Bahamas

© Breezes Resort & Spa Bahamas

Breezes delivers an all-inclusive getaway on a pristine spot of the best beach in Nassau, Cable Beach, with its powder white sands. The property has free wireless internet and deluxe accommodations with rich mahogany furnishings, satellite TV, modern marble and glass bathrooms, and views of either the ocean or lush gardens. You can also request a coffee/tea maker in your room for no charge or a fridge for a small charge. There are 391 guest rooms, each with air conditioning; these include five suites, eight beach front patio rooms, and 28 ocean front rooms. Rooms can also have patios, hammocks, and stocked mini fridges, and there are private beach cabanas complete with cocktail service.

The guest concierge helps with excursions, off-site tours, transportation assistance, spa reservations, and more. In your free time, either relax or enjoy the rock-climbing wall, kayaking, pool volleyball, or tennis. There are three freshwater pools and a whirlpool. Guests get unlimited drinks and cocktails, including wine, beer, cocktails, soft drinks, juice, and more. Every meal and snack is also included, with choices that include an outdoor beach grill, buffets, a la carte, local cuisine, continental food, Asian-fusion, and Italian. There are five restaurants and the choice of private dining for two plus four bars.

Breezes Lane, Nassau, Bahamas, Phone: 954-925-0925


Small Hope Bay Lodge

Small Hope Bay Lodge

© Small Hope Bay Lodge

Small Hope Bay Lodge is all-inclusive, yet delivers some of the most affordable rates. Its private location is just a mile from the Andros Barrier Reef and the beachfront cabins have porches with views of the ocean. There are 21 cabins in total, each with a rustic feel. They have lounge chairs, two single beds or a king bed, air conditioning, fans, safes, and water coolers, plus private bathrooms. Cabins can feature one or two bedrooms with the ability to add extra cots or cribs for free.

There are two beaches on the property, one of which includes loungers, a cabana, and a hot tub. Guests can go diving, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, bicycling, or on a nature walk. Or relax indoors watching TV, visit the library, play games, or use the ping pong tables. The resort is kid-friendly as there are mealtime babysitting services and an outdoor playground. If you need extra relaxation, you can schedule a massage. All meals are buffet style, letting you choose exactly what you want to eat. Expect a range of salads, a meat entrée, a fish entrée, and local side dishes along with complimentary drinks.

Queens Highway, Small Hope, Bahamas, Phone: 242-368-2014


Grand Lucayan

Grand Lucayan

© Grand Lucayan

The Grand Lucayan is in the middle of Freeport right across from Port Lucaya Marketplace. The rooms are all inspired by the island and have patios or balconies and amazing views. There are 519 rooms in the main 10-story building. Every room and suite has a flat-screen TV, tea and coffeemakers, mini-fridges, blackout curtains, hairdryers, safes, irons, and ironing boards, toiletries, and shower/tub combinations. Some also have kitchenettes with microwaves, dishes, utensils, and sinks.

Guests have access to the long stretch of beach with white sand or they can relax in the heated lap pool or spacious serpentine infinity edge pool. There is a full-service spa with beauty salon for a range of treatments. The fitness center lets guests stay in shape or they can play golf, tennis, or a range of watersports like sailing and snorkeling. In addition to concierge services, there is also childcare and babysitting. The property has free wireless internet and covers 7.5 acres. The property has seven restaurants plus four bars and two cafes in addition to 24-hour room service.

Royal Palm Way, Lucayan, Bahamas, Phone: 242-373-1333


Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina

Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina

© Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina

The Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina delivers casual elegance in the Out Islands. Deluxe Club Rooms have wireless internet, iHome speakers with Bluetooth, a small fridge, coffee pots, 32-inch LCD flat-screen TVs with DVD players, air conditioning, ceiling fans, irons with ironing boards, and hair dryers. Every room has its own private patio and deck chairs. Super Club Rooms are even more spacious, and the Super Suite Club Room has a separate living area with two pull-out sofas.

The resort is located along Green Turtle Cay, which is an island only 3 miles long and reachable by boat. The resort is a short golf cart ride to town or a quick walk of under 10 minutes to beaches along the Atlantic portion of the cay. If you prefer, you can swim in the freshwater pool. The concierge can help guests with their vacation needs. Resort guests can enjoy complimentary beach towels, paddleboards, massages, and games in the Great Room. There is a gift shop and grog shop plus a chandlery. Enjoy fresh seafood in the Club Restaurant, where you will find a new menu every night with World and Caribbean fusion cuisine, or get a drink and snack at the Dollar Bar.

Abaco, Bahamas, Phone: 242-365-4271


Hideaways at Palm Bay

Hideaways at Palm Bay

© Hideaways at Palm Bay

The Hideaways resort gives guests a range of accommodations to choose from, including studios, cottages with one or two bedrooms, or villas with one, two, or three rooms. There are 40 residences in total, each of which is one of a kind. Amenities in the rooms include irons with ironing boards, dining rooms, private patios, air conditioning, cable TVs, safes, full kitchen facilities, and hair dryers. Some also have dining rooms.

Guests can enjoy an en suite massage or take advantage of the various water toys to cool off and enjoy the sun. The resort has its own private patio for shade and amazing views. There is also a private pool and water floaties for kids. The resort has kayaks, paddleboards, and four-person paddle boats along with board games and ping pong. The resort also has its own private beach with white sand. Have a meal or drink at Splash Beach Bar & Grill for dining in front of the pool and water.

P.O. Box 29137, Georgetown, Great Exuma, Bahamas, Phone: 242-336-2787


The Island House, Bahamas

The Island House, Bahamas

© The Island House, Bahamas

Nassau’s exotic western coast is the idyllic setting for this elegant, ocean-facing boutique hotel set to open in the spring of 2015. Designed to blend seamlessly in with the natural surrounds of sun, sand and sea, The Island House offers a stylish and sophisticated island getaway with breath-taking views and an ample array of amenities. Luxurious abodes in the form of suites, cottages and apartments are fully equipped with deluxe amenities, state-of-the-art technology, beautiful island-style décor and private decks with sweeping views.

Start your morning with freshly baked pastries and hand-roasted coffee from The Coffee Bar. Feast on native organic fare, sublime Mediterranean cuisine and artisanal pizzas at The Mahogany House, while Shima serves an exotic menu of Southeast Asian cuisine in a casual open-air setting. The exclusive Bamford Spa offers a variety of individually crafted massage and therapeutic treatments, which can be enjoyed in a serene setting, while the hotel’s sparkling lap pool, movement studio, squash and paddle courts offer interesting alternatives to your usual workout. Relax with a movie in the art house cinema or simply languish on your deck with a cocktail and watch the sun sink below the horizon in paradise found.


Melia Nassau Beach

Melia Nassau Beach

© Melia Nassau Beach

Melia Nassau Beach sits right along one of the nicest beaches in Nassau. All the rooms are modern and tastefully decorated with views of the ocean and/or pool and furnished balconies. There are 694 rooms plus 32 suites. Rooms have beachy prints, dark wood furnishings, and crisp bedding. There are elegant features like pedestal tables, tripod floor lamps, and campaign-style furniture. Rooms have coffeemakers with Starbucks coffee, safes, flat-screen TVs, irons, ironing boards, hairdryers, upscale bathrooms, marble sinks, shower/tub combinations, and toiletries. Suites have seating areas and some have bathrobes, balconies, and Bose alarms. Some rooms can also have continental breakfast, coffee and tea service, turn-down service, welcome beverages, snacks all day, and reserved beach areas.

Guests can cool off in one of the three pools, one of which has a swim-up bar along with entertainment. Exercise at the small fitness center or visit the on-site shops and casino. There is free wireless internet and a kids’ club complete with games and activities. Guests can enjoy Latin dancing, bingo, beach volleyball, water sports, massages, or beauty treatments. The six specialty restaurants are regularly praised for their delicious food. Options include Japanese, Peruvian, a steakhouse, Mexican, Italian, tapas, and more.

W Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas, Phone: 242-327-6000


Nassau Paradise Island Beach Club

Nassau Paradise Island Beach Club

© Nassau Paradise Island Beach Club

The Paradise Island Beach Club sits on a quiet portion of a gorgeous beach. There are 44 villas drenched in sun with an airy, tropical feel, and each has a full kitchen, two bathrooms, and two spacious bedrooms along with a private patio and satellite TV. Guests can choose to swim in one of the resort’s two freshwater pools or head to the pristine beach. The fitness center is fully stocked, and guests can schedule a massage. Buy extra items at the deli and general store, where you will find souvenirs, personal items, wine, liquor, and grocery items. The entire property has complimentary wireless internet and guests also have access to barbeque grills, onsite laundry, and complimentary bicycles. Get a drink or meal at the Reef Bar & Grill, which is next to the main pool, or have a refreshing beverage at the swim-up bar. Phone: 242-363-2523


Resorts World Bimini

Resorts World Bimini

© Resorts World Bimini

Bimini features historical landmarks, natural wonders, and preserved cultures in a resort with all the amenities you need to enjoy the Bahamas. There are 374 rooms on the property, each of which has a kitchen complete with microwave, stove, oven, and fridge. Each room also has a washer and dryer, two bathrooms, and free wireless internet. Other room amenities include safes, phones, exterior corridors, designer toiletries, coffeemakers, ceiling fans, toiletries, desks, blackout curtains, patios, TVs, sitting areas with sofa beds, irons, hair dryers, premium bedding, and air conditioning. Guests have easy access to the miles of sandy beach and turquoise water right in front of the resort. For those who want to stay inside, there is a casino and guests have complimentary use of the nearby fitness center or cane make use of the on-site tennis court. Spend some time outdoors at the marina or in one of the two outdoor pools, one of which features a poolside bar. The resort has its own private beach and there are even spa treatment rooms for utter relaxation. For a small extra fee, you can also enjoy a made-to-order breakfast.

North Bimini, Alice Town, Bahamas, Phone: 888-930-8688


Riu Palace Paradise Island

Riu Palace Paradise Island

© Riu Palace Paradise Island

This is among the very few all-inclusive resorts close to Nassau and it is within a very easy walk to various nightclubs, a casino, and other attractions. All of the rooms are modern with free minibars, coffeemakers, and balconies. The rooms and the lobby all have free wireless internet, and all 379 rooms and suites also have complimentary 24-hour room service. Family suites feature two bedrooms, three smaller balconies, two minibars, three flat-screen TVs, a small seating area, and two full bathrooms. The Oceanfront Suites are incredibly spacious, with king-sized beds and rotating flat-screen TVs.

Guests are welcome to take a dip in the outdoor pool, which has a swim-up bar. Relax in the Riu brand spa with a massage or treatment. You will find parasailing, banana boats, and jet skis within easy reach. Meals include creative buffet specials from the executive chef that leave guests raving, or guests can make unlimited reservations at one of four a la carte restaurants. Have a drink or snack at any time of the day in the sports bar or stop by the convenience store for a reasonable wine selection. Via mini-fridges and liquor dispensers, guests have complimentary access to soda, bottled water, beer, vodka, brandy, gin, and rum.

6307 Casino Drive, Paradise Island, Bahamas, Phone: 242-363-3500


Sandals Royal Bahamian

Sandals Royal Bahamian

© Sandals Royal Bahamian

Part of the chain known for creating luxurious resorts, Sandals Royal Bahamian is a European resort that actually has its very own offshore island. This all-inclusive resort even has River Pool Swim-up Suites complete with butler service. Guests can stay in the Windsor Tower or the Balmoral Tower, with walk-out suites leading to the beach. Or they can stay in the Royal Village’s quaint cottages. Guests can relax in one of the colonnaded pools, each of which is sky-sized and overlooks the sea. There is a total of seven pools and six whirlpools. Get pampered at the award-winning Red Lane Spa and then head to one of the two white sand beaches.

The offshore island is easy to access with the complimentary ferry, leading to one of two cove beaches. Or you can stay by the beach club for the swim-up bar at the pool, the casual restaurant, and the whirlpool. Scuba trips are even included, as are watersports. Take advantage of the fitness center or play volleyball, tennis, or pool. Most nights include special celebrations such as charity casinos, live bands, and talent shows. There are ten specialty restaurants with gourmet dining and varied menus. Guests are treated to premium beverages, including Mondavi wines and top-shelf drinks, served 24/7 everywhere in the resort.

W Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas, Phone: 242-327-6400


British Colonial Hilton Nassau

British Colonial Hilton Nassau

© British Colonial Hilton Nassau

This hotel combines the rich colonial history of the Bahamas with modern amenities, perfect for vacations or business travel. This is actually the only beachfront hotel within downtown Nassau and it delivers amazing views. All rooms and public areas have Wi-Fi, while guest rooms have ergonomic chairs and desks, marble bathrooms with separate showers, and some have sofa beds. Suites add separate seating areas, access to the Executive Lounge, and complimentary continental breakfast with refreshments. There are also numerous accessible rooms.

The hotel’s location is by the cruise port with easy access to the private beach with white sands. Alternatively, you can enjoy the outdoor freshwater pool featuring cabanas. There is also a paddle tennis table, snorkeling, sailing, fishing, and fitness room. Participate in water activities to cool off. Depending on your chosen room, a continental breakfast is included, or this can be added as a package. Guests can eat at the Patio Bar and Grill with American and Bahamian favorites. Aqua is open for every meal with special nights like “Seafood Night” and “Bahamian Night,” or you can have a light meal and drink at Bullion.

1 Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas, Phone: 242-302-9000


Stella Maris Resort Club

Stella Maris Resort Club

© Stella Maris Resort Club

The Stella Maris Resort Club has very affordable rates and a gorgeous, secluded location along Long Island. Guests can choose from one of the 45 rooms, including cottages and villas with as many as four bedrooms. The rooms are all spacious with a beachy feel. Accommodations have air conditioning, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, and Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. Cottages have terraces. The villas and apartments have full kitchens, spacious dining areas, large living rooms, and porches, while some also featuring private pools.

The scenic beaches are filled with hammocks for relaxation and there is even a nature pool at one of them. While the beach there is not swimmable, there are free shuttles to swimmable ones, or guests can opt for one of the three pools, one of which has very nice views. Take some time to explore the grounds with its tropical fauna and palm trees. There is complimentary access to kayaks and bikes to let guests explore the island. Free activities can easily fill the day, with bikes, caving, nature walks, boating, and day trips. Upon welcome, guests receive bottled water and a welcome drink. Dine at the on-site restaurant and get a drink either there or at the beach bar.

P.O. Box Li 30.105, Stella Maris, Bahamas, Phone: 242-338-2051


The Cove Eleuthera

The Cove Eleuthera

© The Cove Eleuthera

With awe-inspiring views, turquoise waters, and white sand beaches, this Caribbean hideaway aims to give guests a unique experience. The 57 accommodations include guest rooms, villas, and suites, all of which are just steps from the water. All accommodations have iPod docking stations, air conditioning, 500 thread count linens, in-room wireless internet, 50-inch flat-screen TVs, room service, luxury bath amenities, Nespresso coffeemakers, and in-room safes.

The property on one of the Out Islands is surrounded by a white sand cove for picturesque views and relaxation. Water activities are limitless, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. The pool sits on top of a hill for the best possible views. Guests can visit the fitness center or get pampered in the spa. Other resort amenities include hammocks, a game and movie room, and bikes. For a little extra, you can go conch diving, charter a private boat, snorkel, or fish. The Gregory Town Grill is outside, or you can enjoy a meal at Freedom Restaurant & Sushi Bar. For drinks, head to the Point Bar for sunset views, or enjoy private dining.

Queen’s Highway, BS, Gregory Town 1548, Bahamas, Phone: 242-335-5141


Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach

Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach

© Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach

This all-inclusive resort is designed to appeal to families and couples alike. You can choose a room that faces the ocean, and the entire property has free wireless internet. The 274 rooms are located on more than 26 acres, so even this large resort feels private. There are two room types, each with coffeemakers and balconies. Expect True Blue toiletries, and each room type has its own style; smoking rooms are also available.

The long stretch of beach has enough lounge chairs to go around so you don’t have to rush to find a spot. Relax in the pool or watch a nightly theater performance. Visit the fitness center, play tennis, kayak, paddleboard, or windsurf. If you have an adventurous side, you can use the resort’s trapeze with its instructors. For those who like to stay up late, the main bar and lounge tends to be active far into the night. Choose to dine at one of the three restaurants or two snack bars; you can get wood-fired pizza late. You can also take advantage of the all-day snack bar.

Churchill Drive, Freeport, Bahamas, Phone: 242-373-4000


Warwick Paradise Island

Warwick Paradise Island

© Warwick Paradise Island

This all-inclusive resort is adult-only, perfect for relaxation and romance without having to worry about noisy kids. Guests can choose accommodations with views of the water or island and either two double beds or a king bed. All rooms have dual bedside USB ports, flat-screen TVs with cable and HBO, coffee and tea makers, clock radios, direct dial phones with voicemail, international power ports, safes that can hold a laptop, wireless internet, mini-fridges, and individually controlled air conditioning. Some rooms also have slippers, bathrobes, Keurig coffeemakers, iHome docking stations, living rooms, and double balconies.

The resort has its own private harbor beach or guests can explore the 10,000-square-foot Sunset Terrace and Boardwalk for one-of-a-kind views. Guests have access to the full fitness center, tennis courts, volleyball, Panama Jack bicycles, horseshoes, a basketball court, and bocce. The Amber Spa is a full-service spa and salon. The rate includes all meals and snacks with the choice of five restaurants and two bars for unlimited non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks. There is also a poolside eatery.

Nassau, Bahamas, Phone: 242-363-2560


More Ideas:

Bahama Beach Club

The Bahama Beach Club delivers all you’d expect from a resort, including views of the crystal-clear sea, access to the best beach in the Caribbean, and fragrant tropical gardens. The beachfront condominiums have two, three, four, or five bedrooms and are all elegant; there are more than 50 condos in total. Each has cable TV, spacious kitchens, unlimited and free in-room long distance calls to the US and Canada, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and the choice of daily housekeeping and laundry services. Each balcony has views of the sea.

There is access to world-class deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, beaches, watersports, beach volleyball, golf, and tennis. You can also rent bikes or a car to explore the rest of the island. Brendal’s Dive Center lets you dive between 10 and 100 feet in depth and has everything you need. Guests can dine at the Pool Bar & Grill, which you can swim up to or you can have an elegant meal at the Pavilion, including candlelight dining. Room service is an option as well.

P.O. Box 22275, Treasure Cay, Abaco, Bahamas, Phone: 242-365-8500

Bahamas Vacation Ideas, Tips & Packages

In the Bahamas, vacationers find a wide choice of activities and accommodations. Plan a secluded beach getaway or stay at a full service Caribbean resort, the choice is yours. The 700 islands of the Bahamas extend over 500 miles of clear water with miles of pink and white shoreline. The coral reefs, blue holes, walls, and caves are great diving locations. Before booking your trip, check for packages that let you save on spa treatments, golf, water sports and dining.

Nassau

Located on New Providence Island, Nassau is the capital city. Many visitors pass through the city on their way to other islands. Nassau features colonial mansions, cathedrals and 18th-century fortresses. The main street in Nassau is the Historic Bay Street. Recently restored, the street is home to numerous shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants. If you are planning to stay in Nassau, Compass Point is a colorful hotel with an oceanfront setting. >Paradise Island and Nassau are connected by two 600-foot bridges. On Paradise Island you will find hotels, restaurants and shops. There is also a golf course, an aquarium, and a casino at the Atlantis.

Eleuthera and Harbour Islands

If you are looking for secluded ideas, try Eleuthera and Harbour Islands. Although now increasingly popular, they provide a quiet escape. You can fly to North Eleuthera International Airport, serviced from Nassau and other gateways by both scheduled and charter service. Eleuthera is home to pineapple plantations and colonial villages with architectural influences from the late 1700s. Pink Sands resort gets its name from the color of the sand. Pink Sands is a beachfront hideaway with 25 secluded cottages, perfect for a romantic getaway. Rock House offers nine individually furnished rooms with modern amenities such as high speed internet access, private terraces and central air-conditioning.

Andros

Andros is the largest, measuring 2,300 square miles. It is also the least visited. Andos features the third largest barrier reef in the world and is a perfect destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and other watersports. Tiamo is an environment-friendly resort situated on South Andros. If you want to get away from it all, settle into one of the resort's 11 private beachside bungalows and enjoy the surrounding beaches. Kamalame Cay, adjacent to Andros, also offers only 11 guest accommodations. The 96-acre Caribbean island has three miles of white sand beach sheltered by a barrier reef.

Where to Stay in the Bahamas :